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Moyes backs Rooney for midfield future

David Moyes believes Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney can prolong his career by eventually dropping back into a midfield role.

Rooney drew level with Sir Bobby Charlton’s all-time England mark of 49 after hitting the opener in the 6-0 rout of San Marino on Saturday evening.

And Moyes believes there will be more to come from 29-year-old Rooney – especially if he protects his longevity by moving out of the firing line.

Moyes, who took Rooney into the Everton first team before selling him to Manchester United in 2004, told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Sportsweek programme: “I think while he is probably England’s best striker at the moment, he has to continue playing as a striker and scoring goals.

“But I could genuinely see Wayne being a midfield player for a year or two after that – I think he has got that ability when his legs run out a bit.

“He is such a good footballer and passer of the ball that he could play in other positions and it could be that he steps back (positionally) in time.

“He has played top football for 12 or 13 years and not many players have had careers as long as that and played as many games.

“Wayne has got many miles on the clock but I do think he can go on a bit longer.”

Rooney was hauled off by England boss Roy Hodgson in San Marino but will get the chance to beat Charlton’s record when England face Switzerland at Wembley on Tuesday.

Moyes added: “I think it’s been coming and everyone’s waiting for him to break the record.

“To equal it was incredible. Sir Bobby is such a legendary figure throughout the country, for Wayne to get even close to Sir Bobby is a great achievement.”